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Hey all,
It’s been a while. I just moved up to Rochester and started a new job, so I’ve not had a consistent internet connection for the last few weeks.
Anyway, I had to replace my ignition key tumbler and switch (in my 04 Dodge Stratus Sedan) because the key was stuck in the on position and would not come out of the cylinder. It took some macgyvering to get it out with the key still in, but everything is back together now and works as it should. Anyway, my question is: should I rekey the rest of my car to use the “new” key from the ignition cylinder kit? The original key is extremely worn out, to the point that new copies of my existing worn keys do not work to open the doors/trunk reliably. On the other side, I can’t locate new tumblers to use for rekeying my locks. My dorman ignition switch kit came with 5 of each tumbler, but I doubt that will be enough for rekeying the entire car (and they cost around 1.50 a piece from the dealership). Also, if I’m already rekeying, would it be better to just spend the $20 on a pair of new door locks if not to just get the new tumblers I need for rekeying (I assume all of the ones on the car are fairly worn out).
Thoughts? Thank you!
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I would get fresh keys made for the new ignition switch otherwise
the old keys will not work or will cause issues. try a new key before new locks.Hey all, sorry for not getting back sooner, things have been busy having moved recently. I was able to rekey the whole car (ignition, front doors, and trunk lid). I used the new keys and pinning from the replacement dorman ignition cylinder (though I noted the original key code when I took my original door locks apart). I bought new door locks (they came in a pair for $25. They were easy to open up and re-key, but installing them into the car was harder then the re-pinning itself. The replacement tumblers were hard to track down at a reasonable price. Strattec makes them, but does not sell to the general public. I found the necessary part numbers for each tumbler height, and ordered them in sealed bags of 100 for cheap on ebay.
The trunk lid was a little more tricky. The trunk lock cannot be purchased as an aftermarket part, and the cap is not easily removed. The cap on the trunk lock was crimped on, and not easily removed with basic tools without destroying the cap (which Strattec makes, but are much harder to get a hold of then the tumblers). I found a special pair of pliers that could take care of removal and re-crimping, but they were $200. I like buying tools, but I’m not spending that much on a pair of pliers… This is where China steps in.
Turns out there is a chinese copy of this tool. I was able to order it with the cheapest shipping option to my doorstep for less then $40. There is a moderate learning curve to using this tool (I almost mangled the cap when I tried re-crimping it). I was able to re-key the trunk lock easily (after I got it open. After disassembly, I sprayed some brakekleen in the cylinder and case an I found lots of goo and metal shavings inside the lock. After drying the reusable bits, I lubed it up with some spray silicone (I can’t find my silicon paste). Everything cleaned up well, and I was able to re-crimp it shut without destroying the lock or cap.
As for why I decided to re-key, the original key was worn beyond replacement. It was my only “good” key and all of the copies I tried to have made failed to work reliably. I was able to have a new key cut to code, but it turns out the tumblers were also worn out. Since I needed to replace the ignition cylinder and switch anyway, I decided to “go all the way” and do it right. 😉 I still have my original locks, so when I get some time I may put together a video tutorial for cleaning up and re-keying these Chrysler door locks.
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